Surtees turns 80 and Ferrari hail an extraordinary champion

Reaching the age of eighty is a wonderful landmark, as are the many and great landmarks first achieved by John Surtees in his time as a racer on two and four wheels.

President Luca di Montezemolo said on the Ferrari website, “First of all, he was an extraordinary motorcycle Champion before doing the same in motor cars, taking a fantastic Formula 1 World Championship crown with us in 1964.”

“He is a dear friend to me and he has always maintained an excellent relationship with our company. On behalf of the entire Ferrari family, I send John all the very best wishes for his birthday!” added the Ferrari boss.

Apart from winning the Championship and four Formula 1 grands prix, there were other important victories with the Scuderia, racing sports prototypes: two wins in the Nurburgring 1000 kilometres (1963 and 1965) and one in the 1963 Sebring 12 Hours and the Monza 1000 kilometres. (Ferrari)